Letter: Underage drinking a huge local problem

Every year, during the month of April the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence or NCADD, aims “to increase public awareness and understanding, reduce stigma and encourage local communities to focus on alcoholism and alcohol-related issues”

This year, during the month of April, we are focusing on the problem of underage drinking. Annually, 6,500 underage youths die each year related to alcohol use and abuse, and thousands more are injured. Children, who take their first drink before age 15, are four times more likely to develop alcoholism.

In Madison County underage drinking is a problem.

In the 2012-13 Madison County Pride Survey, 21.6 percent of students, grades 7-12 had used alcohol within the last 30 days and average age of students when they took their first drink of alcohol was 13.5 years old.

Advertisement

Out of the 2,844 students surveyed, 43.2 percent of students reported that alcohol is fairly or very easy to get.

Youths are easily accessing alcohol at home or at friend’s houses.

Parents, guardians and other adults over the age of 21 who have, or live with, children under the age of 21, often do not think twice about keeping alcohol in the home.

Adults need to be more aware of where alcoholic beverages are being stored.

If you must buy alcohol, it should be stored in a safe, secure place, one that can only be accessed by responsible adults 21 years of age or older.

It is important to remember that you are your child’s role model.

Always keep that in mind if you choose to use alcohol in the presence of your children.

It is also very important to talk with your children about the dangers and consequences of using alcohol and other drugs.

Remind your child that it is OK to say “No” and that they should never be afraid to say “No,” if they are asked to use alcohol or other drugs.

alk with them about the dangers of riding in the car with others who may be under the influence. Always know where your child is, who they are with and whether or not a responsible adult will be with them.

Communication is often the key to children making safe and healthy choices and decisions.

Talk with your kids today about the dangers and consequences of using alcohol and other drugs.